Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested James Yearby of 3822 SW Coquina Cove Way, Palm City, on a charge of introduction of contraband into a state correctional facility. Yearby is a corrections officer at Martin Correctional Institution in Indiantown, Martin County.

An investigation was launched in August 2016 after reports that Yearby was overheard discussing the possibility of providing cell phones for cash. Yearby offered two cell phones for $1,500.00. He confirmed the deal and received $1,500.00 for both phones. Subsequently, Yearby offered to make a transaction for $5,000.00 involving cellular minute cards.

He was booked into the Martin County Jail and bond was set at $15,000. The Office of the State Attorney, 19tth Circuit, will prosecute.